The fuurin (風鈴), or Japanese wind chime, is more than just a charming decoration—it’s a
seasonal symbol deeply rooted in Japanese culture. These wind chimes are often made fro
glass, metal, or ceramic and are typically hung outside the home, near windows or under the
eaves. As the summer breeze flows through, the fuurin produces a light, melodious sound that is
said to bring a sense of coolness, even in the heat of midsummer.
One of the most iconic features of a fuurin is the tanzaku—a small, rectangular strip of paper that
hangs below the chime. When the wind catches it, the movement causes the chime to ring. Each
sound is unique, depending on the material and shape of the bell, making every fuurin a little
different.
